Barry Harris: Magnificent!

With Harris at the helm the trio ranges over some scintillating improvisational topography. From the up-tempo swing of Coleman Hawkins’ “Bean and the Boys” to the relaxed romance of “Rouge” Harris’ keys design a thoroughly appealing display of brilliant piano technique. The inclusion of two Charlie Parker tunes alongside a handful of his own originals suggests that Harris was intent on remaining true to his past influences. Carter and Williams stick to standard piano trio etiquette and their contributions are mainly relegated to a supportive stance. The light amplification of Carter’s strings adds even more depth to his usual supple bass lines and William’s temperate touch with his sticks never slips into bombastic excess. The closing reading of “Dexterity” affords both players the room to solo.

What is perhaps most unusual about this session is the time in which it was recorded. 1969 was a banner year for proponents of fusion and soul jazz. An album of more traditionally crafted piano jazz must have seemed like something of an anomalous throwback. No doubt it served as a welcome respite for listeners seeking refuge from the electrically-infused sounds that were all the rage back then and can just as easily serve in the same capacity today.

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